A Practical Guide to Nutrition for People Living with HIV

2.6 Addiction and Recovery

Active use

People who use street drugs usually don’t get enough nutrition (macronutrients or micronutrients). In HIV-positive users, problems with nutrition, such as wasting, may be driven more by drug use than HIV status. Some people who regularly use substances such as heroin, cocaine, crack and crystal methamphetamine don’t have a regular place to live may find it hard to get food and to get the care they need for their health problems. And when it comes time to decide how to spend limited money, food is often a low priority. The downside is that malnutrition, HIV infection and addiction together place HIV-positive drug users at high risk of becoming sick and needing to go to the hospital. Eating better may help you stay healthier while you are using.

Try to purchase some groceries that last a long time. Stock up on peanut butter, oatmeal, powdered milk and canned stews and soups before spending money on drugs.

Detoxification

When people begin to detox from active use, they often feel sick to their stomach or throw up and can find it impossible to eat certain foods. During this time it is important to drink enough fluids and to eat bland, low-fat foods that are easy to digest. Remember that detoxification is just a phase. It may last from a few days to a few weeks, but it will pass. And it is an important first step.

Please note that some content on this website contains language, information and images related to sexuality and drug use, and may not be intended for people of all ages. CATIE ensures that these resources, developed to help prevent the transmission of HIV, hepatitis C and other infections, are written and reviewed by health experts for content accuracy.